Barca could swoop for Luiz if Silva bid fails

Barcelona could turn their attention to Chelsea defender David Luiz should the transfer of Thiago Silva from PSG break down.

Tito Vilanova has long been an admirer of Silva and tried to sign him last summer. However, with PSG seemingly unwilling to sell the 28-year-old, whom they bought from AC Milan a year ago, the deal could be difficult, and PSG coach Laurent Blanc has said he is confident the player will stay.

Should that be the case, according to Mundo Deportivo Vilanova has already identified Silva's Brazilian compatriot Luiz as his plan B. Both players lined up at centre-back for Brazil at the Confederations Cup and played key roles as the Selecao lifted the trophy.

However, despite his excellent tournament, the Spanish newspaper claims the Barca directors have identified Luiz, 26, as a risky option and believe he is tactically naive.

German champions Bayern Munich have also been linked with a move for Luis, but sporting director Matthias Sammer has denied that the Champions League winners are planning to sign him.